If you're not aware of North Carolina State middle linebacker Audie Cole, you will be after tonight's game against Cincinnati (8 p.m., ESPN).
Cole, a former strong-side linebacker, will get plenty of opportunities tonight to show his range and tackling. He gets the task of keeping talented Cincinnati running back Isaiah Pead in check. Pead is one of the nation's most dangerous runners. He has solid size at 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds and a good burst.
In Cole, the first thing you notice about his impressive stature at 6-foot-4, 239 pounds. He has the frame that could sustain 10-15 more pounds of muscle. As it is, he's an active linebacker who can get into the back field. At the next level, Cole is probably better on the outside only because he tends to play so aggressively.
North Carolina State/Cincinnati NFL Draft watch notes
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North Carolina State also features arguably the best blocking tight end in the country with senior
. He’s a throwback tight end who is a load to take down after the catch.
Keep an eye on NC State junior quarterback
. I don’t currently have him ranked because this is his first season as a starter. He has good size, though, and a solid arm.
Cincinnati senior defensive tackle
is one of the nation’s more underrated players. He projects as a five-technique in the NFL. He has the size and strength to hold up in a three-man front.
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